Jordan Denies Knowing About Allegations About OSU Team Doctor

(7-3-18) Several wrestlers (Dunyasha Yetts and Mike DiSabato), who wrestled for U.S. Representative Jim Jordan (R) when he was an assistant coach at Ohio State University (1986-1994), have indicated that Jordan knew about abuse perpetrated by the team doctor, Dr. Richard Strauss, and did not report it.

Former OSU student-athletes from 14 sports have reported allegations of sexual misconduct relating to Strauss. In April OSU announced it was investigating accusations that Strauss abused (wrestling) team members when he was the team doctor from the mid-1970s to late 1990s, during a period that overlapped with Jordan serving (1986-1994) as assistant wrestling coach. Strauss passed away 13 years ago in 2005.

Ian Fury, a spokesman for Jordan:

“Congressman Jordan never saw any abuse, never heard about any abuse, and never had any abuse reported to him during his time as a coach at Ohio State. He has not been contacted by investigators about the matter but will assist them in any way they ask, because if what is alleged is true, the victims deserve a full investigation and justice.”

In a written statement from Porter Wright Morris & Arthur attorney Kathleen Trafford, who are conducting the investigation:

“To date, Rep. Jordan has not responded to those requests (via phone or email), but we understand from public statements issued on his behalf today that Rep. Jordan is willing to talk to the investigative team.”

Democrat Janet Garrett, who is opposing Jordan in the 4th District Congressional seat, issued this statement today:

Any allegation of sexual abuse—or complicity regarding such abuse—is very serious. That damage cannot be undone. For any teacher, protecting kids is the absolute first priority—and I say that as a former kindergarten teacher. Ohio State has an obligation to get to the bottom of this with a thorough and fair investigation. Jim Jordan has an obligation to cooperate fully with that investigation.